Anxiety Among Patients Undergoing Nail Surgery and Skin Punch Biopsy

Abstract

Background:

Patient anxiety about nail surgery relates mainly to pain associated with needle puncture, anesthetic flow during the procedure, and postoperative care, as well as possible past traumatic experience.

Objective:

The aims of this study were to compare anxiety levels among patients undergoing nail surgery and skin punch biopsy and to assess the effects of demographic characteristics on anxiety.

Methods:

Forty-eight consecutive patients who were referred to a dermatological surgery unit for nail surgery intervention (group 1) and 50 age- and sex-matched patients referred to the same unit for skin punch biopsy (group 2) were enrolled in the study. Patients’ anxiety levels were measured using Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.

Results:

There was no significant difference in median anxiety level between group 1 (42.00; interquartile range, 6.50) and group 2 (41.00; interquartile range, 8.25) (P = .517). The demographic factors of patient sex, educational status, and prior surgery showed no significant effects on anxiety levels.

Conclusion:

Nail surgery does not seem to cause significantly greater anxiety than skin punch biopsy.